RICS regulated
Professional standards
RICS Home Survey Level 2
Clear property advice before you buy
A clear, standardised RICS Home Survey designed to help you understand the condition of a conventional property and make a more informed decision before you proceed with the purchase.
Level 2 survey
Clear condition report
Condition ratings
Easy to understand
Local expertise
Cornwall · Devon · Somerset
Need help choosing?
Not sure whether a Level 2 Home Survey is right for the property?
Speak to one of our Chartered Surveyors and we’ll recommend the most appropriate survey for the property, without obligation.
Understanding the survey
What is a RICS Home Survey Level 2?
The RICS Home Survey Level 2 — previously commonly known as a HomeBuyer Report — is designed to provide clear, easy-to-read advice on the condition of a property.
It provides an overview of the exterior, interior and services, using clear condition ratings to highlight areas that may need attention. It can also identify matters to discuss with your legal adviser and other property considerations that may affect your purchase.
It is typically suited to reasonably modern, conventional houses, flats and bungalows that appear to be in reasonable condition.
RICS survey terminology
HomeBuyer Report or Home Survey Level 2?
The name has changed, but you may still hear both terms used.
RICS introduced the Home Survey Standard and the familiar HomeBuyer Report terminology was replaced by the RICS Home Survey Level 2.
If you have been advised to arrange a HomeBuyer Report, in most cases it is the Home Survey Level 2 that you are looking for. It provides clear advice on the condition of the property, highlights defects that may require attention and helps you make a more informed decision before buying.
Previously known as
HomeBuyer Report
Current RICS terminology
Home Survey Level 2
Is it right for you?
A sensible choice for many conventional homes
Well suited to
- Reasonably modern propertiesWell suited to many homes built using conventional materials and construction.
- Conventional housesA practical choice where the property appears broadly straightforward.
- Flats and maisonettesUseful for many purpose-built and converted residential properties.
- BungalowsAppropriate where the building appears to be in reasonable condition.
- Homes in reasonable conditionClear condition advice without the depth of a Level 3 Home Survey.
02
When you may want more detail
A Level 2 Home Survey is less detailed than a Level 3 Home Survey. If the property is older, unusually constructed, extensively altered, in poor condition, or you simply want a more detailed assessment, we can recommend the most appropriate level.
Compare with a Level 3 Home SurveyWhat the survey covers
Clear information on the condition of the property
The survey focuses attention on defects, repairs and matters that may need further investigation before you become legally committed to buy.
Condition ratings
Easy-to-understand ratings highlight the condition of key elements of the property.
Urgent repairs
Important repairs and defects requiring prompt attention are clearly identified.
Further investigation
Significant matters that should be investigated before purchase are brought to your attention.
Maintenance
Areas that may be dealt with through routine repair, renewal or ongoing maintenance are explained.
Legal considerations
Relevant points are highlighted for referral to your solicitor or conveyancer.
Other considerations
Relevant observations can include safety, locality, environmental matters and insurance considerations.
Making an informed decision
Understand the property before you proceed
- 01
Decide whether to proceed
Use the survey findings to make a reasoned and informed judgement about the purchase.
- 02
Consider the agreed price
Understand whether issues identified by the survey may affect your view of the property and purchase.
- 03
Investigate concerns early
Identify matters that should be looked into before you become legally committed to buy.
- 04
Plan for the future
Understand features and defects that may influence maintenance, value or future saleability.
Compare survey options
Home Survey Level 2 or Level 3?
The right survey depends on the property and the level of detail you need. If you are unsure, our team will recommend the most appropriate option.
| Consideration | Home Survey Level 2 | Home Survey Level 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional properties in reasonable condition | ✓ Recommended | Available |
| Clear standardised condition ratings | ✓ Yes | More detailed commentary |
| General condition and significant defects | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes — in greater detail |
| Level of detail | Concise and standardised | ✓ More comprehensive |
Not sure which survey is right for the property?
Speak to a Chartered SurveyorWhy Bradleys Surveyors?
Professional advice with local knowledge
RICS regulated
Professional surveying advice delivered to recognised industry standards.
Independent advice
Clear guidance focused on the property and your decision as the buyer.
Regional knowledge
Local experience of property across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset.
Clear reporting
Practical findings and recommendations explained without unnecessary jargon.
Frequently asked questions
Home Survey Level 2 explained
It is typically recommended for reasonably modern, conventional houses, flats and bungalows that appear to be in reasonable condition.
The RICS Home Survey Level 2 is the current survey terminology for the service many buyers still know as a HomeBuyer Report. We retain the older term where useful so customers can easily recognise the type of survey they are looking for.
It provides a clear overview of the property's condition and identifies significant concerns, but it is not as detailed as a RICS Home Survey Level 3.
Speak to our team before instructing us. We can discuss the property and help you choose the most appropriate survey level.
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Or call us01392 42589101209 712111
No obligation • Independent advice • Local surveyors